Pakistan is likely to celebrate Eid ul Fitr on March 21, 2026, according to astronomical estimates released by the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco).
Experts from Suparco say the chances of sighting the Shawwal crescent moon on the evening of March 19 are low. Because of this, Ramadan is expected to complete a full 30 days in Pakistan this year.
If the prediction holds true, the first day of Shawwal will begin on Saturday, March 21. This day marks the end of the holy month of fasting and the start of Eid celebrations across the country.
However, the official announcement will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee after reviewing moon sighting reports from different regions of Pakistan.
Astronomical Data Shows Low Chances of Crescent Sighting
According to Suparco’s calculations, the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH will be born on March 19, 2026, at 06:23 Pakistan Standard Time.
Astronomers explained that the moon’s age and visibility play an important role in determining whether the crescent can be seen.
At sunset on March 19, the moon will be approximately 12 hours and 41 minutes old. This age is generally considered very young for reliable visibility.
Experts also said the time gap between sunset and moonset will be around 28 minutes along Pakistan’s coastal areas.
Such a short visibility window makes the sighting of the crescent difficult. Due to these factors, Suparco believes that moon sighting on March 19 is unlikely.
Because of this, Ramadan is expected to last the full 30 days before Eid begins.
Final Announcement Will Come From Ruet-e-Hilal Committee
Although astronomical calculations provide useful guidance, the official decision about Eid dates in Pakistan is made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
The committee reviews testimonies from moon sighting committees across the country. After verification, it announces whether the crescent moon has been sighted.
The committee is currently chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad. Religious scholars and meteorological experts participate in the final deliberations.
Last month, the committee confirmed the start of Ramadan after sighting the crescent moon. Pakistan observed the first fast on February 19, 2026.
The same process will be followed to determine the beginning of Shawwal and the date of Eid ul Fitr.
Importance of Eid ul Fitr in the Muslim World
Eid ul Fitr is one of the most important Islamic festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide.
The festival marks the end of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset as an act of worship and self-discipline.
Ramadan encourages patience, charity, and spiritual reflection. Many Muslims also increase prayers and acts of kindness during this period.
Islamic months follow the lunar calendar, which depends on the sighting of the crescent moon. Each month lasts either 29 or 30 days.
Because the Islamic calendar is about 10 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, Ramadan shifts earlier every year.
As Ramadan ends, Muslims celebrate Eid ul Fitr with prayers, charity, and gatherings with family and friends. Special meals and festive activities are also part of the celebrations.
In Pakistan, Eid preparations usually begin days before the official announcement. Markets remain busy as people shop for clothes, gifts, and food items for the festival.
